When your baby is six months old, you can offer it unsweetened herbal tea for babies from time to time. These teas usually contain herbs that are said to facilitate digestion, such as chamomile and dill.
Unfortunately, there is not much research on the effects of herbal teas on babies. But the herbs listed above are generally considered safe for your baby when available in moderate amounts.
Some teas contain sugar to mask the sharp taste they have.
Therefore, check that the tea you give your baby is not sweetened.
Sugar can damage your baby's developing teeth.
Herbal teas are not suitable for babies less than six months old.
Your baby doesn't need anything other than breast milk or formula at this stage.
If your baby is not yet six months old and colicky, it's tempting to try herbal teas to soothe it. It is doubtful whether herbal teas can help with colic.
Regularly giving your baby tea instead of breast milk can affect growth and weight gain.
If you're breastfeeding, giving your baby extra drinks can reduce your milk supply, as breastfeeding works on a supply and demand basis.
You should also avoid black teas for baby. The caffeine in black tea can disrupt your little one's sleep.
Rooibos tea has less tannins and no caffeine and is a good option, but it's still better for your baby to have the normal breast milk instead.
If you still want to include tea in your baby's menu, an option is to replace the water in the popara you prepare for your baby over 6 months with tea.
